Catherine Benskin: Who I Am

I have had a lovely idea. I am ready to do another event, as are some other members of my group (do you think we need a name by now?? Suggestions welcome...). As you know we have been doing fundraisers for Gabriel Network for the last few years in the form of coffeehouse events. I recently took my mom to a tea room for some mom time. It was such a lovely, relaxed day, I thought it would be nice to orchestrate such a day for both mom's in the Network at present and any others that might want to celebrate with or for them (by free will offering or baby shower "registry items" as gifts) for Mother's day.

My obstacle is this: do any of you, good doers, know of a community of people that would want to attend such an event as would make it worth our while and have a place to host us?? Please contact me ASAP! I've already started working on a wonderful line up of music I am eager to share!

I’ve been wondering for the last few weeks why it is I feel so connected to the story of two local teenage girls who had run away and ultimately committed suicide together. I have followed all the updates every time I turned on my computer.

I guess there are two reasons that make their story so close to my heart. The first is that excerpts from one of the Rachel’s diary alluded to a romantic relationship between them. Her sister says that their sexuality had nothing to do with their running away, but one has to wonder about the extra stress that is placed on our youth growing up, especially in a Catholic Church, when she realizes she may be or is a lesbian.

The second reason is another topic that is so close to me: Teenage depression and suicide. Some may know that I spent my Junior and Senior years of high school plus a year or two after, silently suffering with untreated depression and hopes for a painless death. Why did I not take that final step? Well, on good days I believed it was not God’s plan for me and on bad days I felt so hopeless, I was afraid that I was not even up to doing that successfully.

Why am I sharing this? My battle against my mental illness (bipolar) has hardly been a secret, but I suppose it is to put forth one more success story. If any teen or adult is struggling and is in the place where nothing seems possible, maybe they will come across my website and see how I’ve come through on the other side of two onsets of biploar. There is life after (and living with) mental illness. Both times I struggled my way through, one day at a time, with visions of the things that were good in my life. My hope is that you will too.

And to Rachel Crites and Rachel Smith: I am sorry that it wasn't enough, that you couldn't find that hope and had to go through so much pain. I wish you could have found your peace and solace in this life for one more day. Sadly, for this world and the blessings you might have continued to be in it, we hope you have found your peace.

Love & Peace

C

Yesterday we buried Alec Carlino. He was some number of cousin something removed, but I never remember how that works. We just called him Uncle Alec.

Alec was a person who could inspire others just by being in the room. He loved life and he loved God. He made use of all the gifts God gave him. No apologies, no excuses. His example gave permission to others to live as the person God had created them to be. It's hard to imagine that all the love and stories shared over the past few days were only from one life.

We were all so blessed by Alec being in our lives. We love you, we will miss you. Well done, good and faithful servant!

Last night at my home parish, St. Rose of Lima, I was privileged to see Steve Angrisano and Tony Melendez in concert. As I am thinking about it, I should have put it on my site before now.

Anyway, after an exhaustive day of performing for participants of the "March for Life" event, they came to St. Rose to perform a "Free Will Offering" Concert! It was most festive. Steve, has been called a cleaner, Catholic Adam Sandler. His music is inspiring and he brings Christianity into the here and now on a down to earth level of being a regular guy.

Tony Melendez, born with no arms and plays guitar with his feet, uses his talent and courage to inspire others. We had so much fun. Conga lines all around the room! A wonderful time. The Toe Jam Band that travels with him was fabulously energetic and talented as well.

After packing up, I had the honor of sitting next to Tony as the group migrated over to the pub for some eats. I feel so lucky to have had the time to share bread and conversation with the man, who I hesitate to call disabled. There with him, I completely forgot about his differentness and we spoke more about family and how his ministry is blessing to many as his family is supportive and strong during his hectic travel schedule.

If you ever get the chance, don't miss either of these fabulous performers! But until then, check them out here: http://www.steveangrisano.com/ http://www.tonymelendez.com/ .

Dear Friends,

Every year, like most hard workers, I take 1 or maybe 2 weeks of
vacation away from my full-time job~that would be raising my family.
I use this time to rediscover my talents, my freedom, and how
grateful I am to have such a wonderful husband who gives me the space
to do so.

Most summers I go to the NPM music convention which is held in a
different city each year. This year, in one week, I will discover a
good portion of the California Coastline by joining the Annual Aids
Lifecycle Event.

As cycling (and most anything athletic) is not my area of gifting, I
will be using my gifts of enthusiasm and hospitality and my desire to
meet new people and hear new stories by becoming part of the "Rest
Stop #1 Team". Each day I will rise at 4 am (vacation?), dress in the
dark of my tent to be taken to a rest stop for the morning. We will
dress in the theme for the day and await cyclist participants to
arrive and partake of refreshments and encouragement to continue
their journey.

I will be joining my good friend Dan Pyryt in his second year riding
for the event. Since Roadies (like me) are not required to raise
funds and cyclists (like Dan) are, I am hoping you will make a
donation to support this worthy cause through "Team Pyryt" on his web
site http://www.aidslifecycle.org/5540 . From this web site you are
able to access all kinds of information about the Event. You can see
pictures of everyone having fun, find out where the money goes and
read positive life changing stories about the people involved.

As always, if you are not financially able to give right now, prayers
are graciously accepted, as are inspirational messages to Dan's page
(above) or mine http://www.aidslifecycle.org/9154. But, please
consider helping financially if you are at all able.

Thanks and Blessings as always!

Got this on a "Please Forward Email" Although I didn't forward it and make no promises as to how your life will improve by passing it on to 5 people, I think our lives might all be better if we follow them!

ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

FOUR. When you say, "I love you," mean it.

FIVE. When you say, "I'm sorry," look the person in the eye.

SIX. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.

EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

TEN.. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.

TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.

THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"

FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

FIFTEEN. Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.

SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson

SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: R espect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions.

EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.

TWENTY-ONE. Spend some time alone.

Happy New Year!

Did you know my friend and music partner, Alan, has become an independent candle consultant? He is now ready for you to contact him to purchase candles or earn freebies by hosting a party with the lovely scent of these delicious candles as a welcome guest. Please visit his new business site www.mygccandle.com/candlemancan . As part of the company's mission to give back to the community, they have started the Prayer Child Foundation. Now buying candles can make you feel better than just their immediate benefits!

For music ministers, isn't Christmas a whrilwind? As much as I love what I do, I don't realize how busy I am and how worn out I will be until afterward.

In case you are not a member of NPM, here is a great consolation for you and your family:

"Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" Luke 2:49

Musicians and other pastoral ministers sometimes feel torn between the demands of ministry and the families they love, especially at Christmas time.
Our loved ones may find it hard to understand why we spend so much time at church and feel some resentment and disappointment. We, on the other hand, may find it difficult to convey to those closest to us the intense joy we experience in leading God's people in singing the liturgy. It would probably not help to quote to them from today's Gospel: "Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?"

Our celebration today calls us all-especially hard-working musicians-to remember that God's presence is found not only at church but in our homes and in our family members. Whether at church or at home, today's readings instruct us to "put on love, that is, the bond of perfection" (Col 3:14) and to "love one another just as he commanded us" (1 Jn 3:23).

Prayer:
God of love, give us strength for the demands of ministry and help us to live as Jesus, Mary, and Joseph-in peace with you and one another.

J. Michael McMahon
National Association of Pastoral Musicians

NPM members receive Sunday Word each week. We would love for you to join us! Check the NPM website for more information and join today!

It's here! The new Gabriel Network "Welcome the Child" Christmas Music Collection features traditional hymns and original songs performed by local artists. Proceeds support Gabriel Moms & Babies in need! $15 suggested donation + $3 s/h.
Visit their site www.GabrielNetwork.org To order by Visa / Mastercard, check or money order, download order form (click on image) and return by FAX to 301-262-5389 or by mail to P.O. Box 2116, Bowie, MD, 20718-2116, Attn: Welcome the Child CD.

You may also place Visa / Mastercard order by calling our business office at 301-262-9011 or 410-741-1228.

'Looking to do a good deed this Christmas? HELP US SELL CDs at your church or community organization!! Contact our office for details. They will also be available at our Holiday Coffeehouse!

Thank you for your support!

I happened upon this article while scanning the news this morning. Of course when I say, "I can't believe what some kids are wearing to school these days" I don't mean it literally. I am not unaware of what is out there or the motivations behind it. What I mean is perhaps, "Why do teens wear some of the things they wear, why do parents (who know) let them and why is it even a question by some administrators?"

If you take a look at this article you will see some interesting sayings that teens are wearing on shirts. As I recall Montgomery County has a sexual harassment policy. If anyone was heard speaking some of the statements on their shirts, that rule would have been violated. Why is wearing it on a t-shirt different? I am pretty sure that my Middle School daughter would feel uncomfortable being approached by someone wearing shirts like these. One mom lets her daughter wear them because she knows she's a good kid and doesn't care what other people think. I, on the other hand, know my daughter is a good kid and make her aware that her clothing, speech and actions allow her to be a model for others of what Christ would have us be.

In this society, while judging on appearances should be discouraged, shouldn't we encourage our youths to represent themselves in a way that would exude a respectful attitude if that is how we hope they would be treated?
While each generation has surely has their own "stylistic" differences and I do believe in allowing my children to express their inner selves, we have 3 boundries in our home as far as wardrobe is concerned: resaonably modest, age appropriate, and situationally appropriate.

For others to respect you and treat you well, you must first respect yourself.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15022360/

Looking forward to our Corpus Christi Anniversary Party. If you are in the area, drop in to hear us sing. Looking for a new church home? Come see the spirit of Corpus Christi!. Alan and I will be glad to give you more info about our community! And there's yummy food. Bring a potluck item if you can!

www.corpuschristisr.org

Just got my second payment for digital sales! Thanks to all of you who purchased my music. For those of you who have bought our music, either hard copy CD or downloads, please consider going to my apple itunes page and leaving a fabulous review. Others may not know who great we are! We need your help! Thanks as always!

www.phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?i=141528859&id=141528628&s=143460

John Angotti is coming to the area! If you don't know about John Angotti, you should! www.johnangotti.com . He is a fabulous composer/ performer, etc! A night of fun for music ministers! Check out St. Francis de Sales web for info on this event! Or you can contact me with questions. Hope to see you there! http://stfrancisdesalescatholicchurch.org/RenewalWeekend/an_evening_for_music_ministers.htm

Just opened my email this morning to a wonderful surprise. Some of you out there have taken advantage of buying my music digitally! Thank you! If it wasn't you, click on the itunes web site in an entry below to see how easy it is!

I can't believe it's already August. I have been so busy that I haven't had time to update my blog. This is what I've been up to...

My daughter was promoted out of fifth grade, got braces and will be entering Middle School. They grow so fast! She has a wonderful opportunity to attend an Arts Magnet. She will be following the "Theater Track". They also offer a full course load of GT classes to keep her challenged!

Molly the Pug has grown so much. I would say she's a good 11 pounds. She is the joke of the neighborhood. Most everyone around here has dogs up past the knee, one is even a Mastiff. But, she holds her own and has gained a good rep. I found out this morning during a morning snack on my fingers that she has lost at least one tooth and has several others loose. We are hoping to go to a doggy fair tomorrow!

Keoki is dealing with new-baby syndrome as best as he can. I got a lovely surprise when he made me a beautiful pair of earrings at the bead store the other day.

As for me, I went to the NPM Conference in Connecticut. Had a wonderful time. Then I had the most wonderful luxury of spending a week in the back woods of Minnesota on a songwriting retreat with Jeanne Cotter. Lovely as always, she worked us hard! The ARC retreat house is a wonderful place. They feed you wonderful meals with the sweetest staff. I met some fabulous songwriters from all over the country. It's amazing to me how 10 strangers can fit together so well so quickly. But, as fast as you get to know them living, working, praying from 8 AM-10 or 11 PM every night, one day they are gone. It leaves an emptiness. But we have been working to keep in touch with our writings, etc.

And Bible Camp was a blast! Very exhausting, but I think kids and adults alike enjoyed their week in Judea 29 AD.

Hope you are having an enjoyable summer as well! We are starting to plan for 2 small fall appearances at Corpus Christi's Anniversary Celebration and St. Rose Fiesta! Hope to see you there!

Saw this on a t-shirt. Not necessarily as spiritual as yesterday's, but liked it anyway. It said:

"Don't give me no attitude; I've got plenty already!"

Live life!

The cover story in Newsweek this week is on Johnny Depp. I found this great quote from the interview that is just what I would want people to know about me:

"...it seems taht if you're passionate about something, it freaks people out. You're considered bizarre or eccentric. To me, it just means you know who you are."

Have a passionate day!

Help us out by going on our iTunes link and writing a review (favorable, preferably)!

http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=141528628

Pictures are now available for viewing from my friend Dan Pyryt from his AIDS LifeCycle event. Check them out on the NBC 11 web site. http://www.nbc11.com/index.html
Spoke with him halfway through the week. He was having a great time, but sounded exhausted!

Doing a google search, I found a heading I was not expecting. I had this in the works, but was not made aware of its manifestation. We are now available digitally! Of course, I would still hope that you would consider buying a hard copy (I have it on good authority that there are some still available), but you can now download your Catherine & Alan favorites on your ipod to motivate you in body prayer (exercise) or cleaning! Or something wholesome for your kids to add to their collection!

More distributors are still in the works, but for now, you can find us here:
http://www.payplay.fm/genre/4 .

Thanks for all your support!

It's been a busy few weeks. I just finished helping direct the Opera at my daughter's school. These fourth graders are amazing! They do all the work themselves: writing, composing, set design and construction, make-up & costumes. We just give them the skills and let them go. If you are in the DC area, you can catch it on Access Montgomery Channel 19, Comcast Cable.

Also, our new pug has been settling in. It's been a couple days since we've had to clean up any surprises in the house (knock wood) and she has learned her "Sit, stay." Only 10 weeks old! What can I say? All my kids tend to be precocious!

Just spent a couple days at a God-Song songwriters conference. I was able to meditate on my gifts and specialties as well as meet some really great people. One of them is Eric Rafoth who is doing some great things combining musicians with financial support for community organizations. Right up our alley. We hope to do some connecting in the future. Check out his web site to book him. http://www.eric-rafoth.com .

My next big adventure will be my daughter's Elementary School Promotion. It's a miracle how they grow! From the womb to Middle School~ where did the time go?

For those of you attending the NPM Regional Conference in Stamford, CT and wish to meet up, email me here before hand or leave me a message at the Marriott!

Peace All & Enjoy Summer!

PS For those following the AIDS Lifecycle Event, make sure to wear your "Red Dress" on Thursday! Dan's final donations total: $3780! Great job & good luck on your ride!

First of all, thanks for your generosity. Dan was able to surpass his minimum goal of $2500. He then raised it to $3500 and with the open hearts of many has passed that goal as well. Thank you for all who contributed! When his blog site is ready, I will be sure to post it so that we can continue to support Dan in his work during the race!

Secondly, my baby Molly is home! And I say baby, because I have had two children already and know this to be true. Since Saturday, I have relived the burden & joy of sleepless nights, potty training, and constant companionship. But, she is doing great, is beautiful, and we are loving that she has come to live with us. To see Molly, go to photos.

Also, great news! Christian recording artist, Catherine Lowell has agreed to join us in our Advent Coffehouse(s). A great community event for any parish. Let us know if you would like us to come to yours at no cost to you (and possibly a cut of CD sales if you negotiate well).

Thanks as always for your support in God's work in this world!

Remember I asked for help in sponsoring my friend Dan who is participating in the AIDS LifeCycle Event this June. The good news is that he has reached his original goal of $2500. The other good news is that he is still accepting donations. If you haven't had a chance to sponsor, there is still time! Thanks for helping Dan help those in need of medication and prevention outreach!

My friend Nic from church is opening a portrait studio in Gaithersburg. Even if you are not in the market for his services at present, do not miss visiting this site for an incredible adventure in photography!
www.nicholasfan.com